Yan Xiaotian, dean of the International Exchange College at Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, speaks at the opening ceremony of the 2017 Shanghai Summer School in TCM on June 18. [Photo provided to study-shanghai.org]

The 2017 Shanghai Summer School in Chinese medicine opened at the Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (SHUTCM) on June 18.

A total of 29 students from 14 countries, including the US, Brazil, Canada, Russia, Slovenia, Serbia, Malaysia, Thailand, Japan and Poland, will be immersed in traditional Chinese medicine from June 18 to July 14.

Yan Xiaotian, dean of the International Exchange College at SHUTCM, extended her welcome to the students. She looked forward to their gaining a better understanding of Chinese culture and enjoying their living and studying experiences in Shanghai.

Justin Maher, an American student from Augusta State University, expresses his attraction to Chinese culture at the opening ceremony. [Photo provided to study-shanghai.org]

Han Chouping, vice-dean of the International Exchange College at SHUTCM, briefed the students about the various academic lectures and classes provided to help increase their knowledge of basic TCM information, prescriptions, acupuncture, massage and health maintenance.

She also introduced the variety of off-campus activities scheduled for the students, such as visiting local hospitals and practicing tai chi, an ancient Chinese martial art believed to benefit health.

Justin Maher, an American student from Augusta State University, expressed his keen interest in Chinese culture and his excitement at living and studying at SHUTCM.

Launched by the Shanghai Municipal Education Commission in 2008, Shanghai Summer School has gained renown by inviting numerous overseas students to a range of cultural exchange activities every year.

It is also targeting more overseas students who qualify for a Shanghai government scholarship as well as those who are already studying higher education in the city.

Students and teachers attending the 2017 Shanghai Summer School TCM program pose for a group photo. [Photo provided to study-shanghai.org]